Baked Orange Cranberry Chicken Thighs – Sweet, Tangy, and Delicious

Baked Orange Cranberry Chicken Thighs – Sweet, Tangy, and Delicious

Introduction

Baked Orange Cranberry Chicken Thighs are one of those dishes that feel both comforting and a little special at the same time. The combination of sweet citrus, tart cranberries, and juicy chicken creates a flavor balance that’s vibrant without being complicated. This recipe reminds me of cozy family dinners where the oven does most of the work and the kitchen fills with a warm, fruity aroma. It’s simple enough for a weeknight but elegant enough for guests, making it a reliable favorite you’ll want to keep in your rotation.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1 kg bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2.2 lb / 6–8 thighs)
• 15 ml olive oil (1 tablespoon)
• 5 g salt (1 teaspoon)
• 2 g black pepper (½ teaspoon)
• 5 g paprika (1 teaspoon)
• 5 g garlic powder (1 teaspoon)

For the Orange Cranberry Sauce

• 240 ml fresh orange juice (1 cup)
• Zest of 1 orange (about 1 tablespoon / 6 g)
• 120 g fresh or frozen cranberries (1 cup / 4.2 oz)
• 60 ml honey or maple syrup (¼ cup)
• 15 ml soy sauce or tamari (1 tablespoon)
• 10 ml apple cider vinegar (2 teaspoons)
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or rosemary, chopped (optional)

Directions